Pastor Stephen Dedman

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Devotional For November 4, 2023

Encouragement

Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
‭‭John‬ ‭17‬:‭17‬

In John 17, we hear a prayer from Jesus, often referred to as the “High Priestly Prayer.” In this prayer, Jesus intercedes on behalf of His disciples and all future believers, asking that they be sanctified by the truth.

Sanctification involves being set apart for a holy purpose. Jesus desires that we be set apart and by the truth. He identifies God’s Word as the source of that truth. God’s Word is the ultimate standard of truth, a guide for our lives, and a revelation of God’s character and will.

It is very important that we immerse ourselves in God’s Word. The Bible not only informs us of the truth but also has the power to change us. It corrects our misconceptions, convicts us of sin, guides our decisions, and shapes our character to align with God’s holiness.

Make a commitment to seeking and living out the truth found in God’s Word. As you do, you will be progressively sanctified and set apart for God’s purposes. May His truth touch your heart and direct your actions.

Pray

Lord, I thank You for the truth found in Your Word. Help me to cherish and immerse myself in it, so that I can be continually sanctified and set apart for Your holy purposes. May Your Word shape my thoughts, decisions, and actions. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For November 2, 2023

Encouragement

When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk they have secretly set a snare for me.
‭‭Psalms‬ ‭142‬:‭3‬

This verse captures a moment when the psalmist felt overwhelmed by his circumstances. These words describe when he was heavy burdened and it seemed that others had set traps and obstacles in his way.

Life often brings moments of distress and feelings of being ensnared by challenges. In these times, it’s important to remember that God is fully aware of our circumstances. He knows our every step, and nothing escapes His attention. When we’re burdened and feel surrounded by difficulties, we can turn to Him, knowing that He is our refuge and strength.

The act of pouring out our hearts to God is a form of honest and vulnerable prayer. Just as the psalmist did, we can share our fears, anxieties, and troubles with our heavenly Father. He listens, cares, and offers guidance, comfort, and strength. It’s a reminder that in our moments of overwhelming circumstances, we don’t have to face them alone.

So, when you find yourself in a situation like the one described in Psalm 142:3, take a cue from the psalmist. Pour out your heart to God, and trust in His knowledge of your path. He is there to guide you through the snares and give you peace for your troubled spirit.

Pray

Lord, in the moments when I feel overwhelmed, I’m thankful that I can turn to You. You know my path, and nothing is hidden from Your sight. I pour out my heart to You, knowing that You will encourage and strengthen me. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Devotional For October 30, 2023

Encouragement

But Christ came as High Priest of the good things to come, with the greater and more perfect tabernacle not made with hands, that is, not of this creation.
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭9‬:‭11‬

Hebrews 9:11 paints a picture of Jesus as our High Priest. In the Old Testament, the high priest held the honor and responsibility of entering the Most Holy Place of the temple to make atonement for the sins of the people. However, Jesus is described as the High Priest of the “good things to come,” and His tabernacle is “greater and more perfect.”

This verse is a reminder of the extraordinary nature of Christ’s priesthood. He doesn’t enter an earthly sanctuary but the heavenly one, not made by human hands. His work is not confined to temporary rituals but secures eternal salvation for those who believe in Him. In Christ, we have a High Priest who mediates for us before God, ensuring that the “good things to come” are ours to inherit.

We should be grateful for the perfect High Priest we have in Jesus. He has accomplished what no other high priest could—eternal redemption. We can approach God with confidence, knowing that Christ’s work is complete, and we are welcomed into the presence of God. May this truth fill us with hope and assurance as we live out our faith in Him.

Pray

Lord, thank You for being the perfect High Priest and entering the heavenly tabernacle to secure my eternity. Help me to grasp the significance of this wonderful work. Give me confidence and assurance as I anticipate the “good things to come” that You have promised. In Jesus’ name, amen.